Infectious Laryngotracheitis (ILT) killing chickens in North Carolina

[Ian David]

GLIDE Number: BH-20070416-10870-USA
Date / time: 16/04/2007 02:59:56
Event: Biological Hazard
Area: North-America
Country: USA
State/County: State of North Carolina
City: Unknow
Number of Deads: None or unknow
Number of Injured: None or unknow
Damage level: Minor

Description:
A respiratory disease in chickens has been found on several poultry farms in southeastern North Carolina. As of 11 Apr 2007, at least 57 suspected cases of infectious laryngotracheitis, or ILT, have been found on farms in Union, Anson, Montgomery, Randolph, Richmond, Moore, Scotland, Robeson and Bladen counties. So far, 45 cases have been confirmed. The disease is extremely contagious and can spread by contaminated equipment, boots, clothing and litter. Chickens can be infected through the respiratory tract and eyes. The disease doesn't pose a threat to humans, said Sarah Mason, director of poultry health programs at the N.C. Department of Agriculture. The signs of ILT in chickens include swelling or foamy material around eyes, labored breathing, neck extension when coughing, and gasping, Mason said.

"We are seeing some death from it in the birds," she said. "There is a higher morality rate than what you would expect normally." Mason recommends isolating birds as much as possible if they show signs of ILT. During outbreaks, farmers should not visit other people who have birds. "I would have a dedicated set of clothes, including shoes, just to work in the chicken house," she added. "If you are sharing equipment with other farmers, you need to make sure you disinfect between farms." Small producers and non-commercial growers should avoid buying birds at auctions and shows during outbreaks. "If they do bring new birds to a flock, you should quarantine the birds for at least a month before mixing them with an existing flock," Mason said. Small producers and noncommercial growers who suspect their birds may have ILT can bring carcasses to one of the 5 diagnostic labs in the state. For a fee, a pathologist will examine the bird and give suggestions. It is important to keep the birds on ice, she said. Labs are located in Raleigh, Rose Hill, Elkin, Monroe and Arden.

More:
http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/woalert_read.php?lang=eng&cid=10870

[CAG]

1. thats nothing to bawk at.... nt